Therapeutic exercise and cryotherapy on the physical and psychological performance of an amateur soccer player after fracture

Abstract

The present research aimed to determine the effects of a mixed physical exercise program with cryotherapy and / or thermotherapy on the physical condition, quality of life, stress levels and self-esteem of an amateur soccer player one month after his medical discharge. The subject studied is a 26-year-old man, single, active, and with secondary education. He underwent open reduction and osteosynthesis in May 2021 after a medial malleolus fracture of the left ankle. The 8-week intervention program includes the application of different physical exercises to improve quality of life, endurance, balance, and muscle strength, as well as cold and heat therapy in the affected area. The results show an improvement in physical condition (strength, endurance and balance), stress levels and an increase in health-related quality of life. It can therefore be concluded that this mixed intervention program, based on physical exercise and hot and cold therapy, contributed to positive effects on the physical condition, emotional function and quality of life of the participant in this research.